Detectives from the Linn County Sheriff's Office have made two arrests in connection with the homicide of Christopher Smith, which took place in a parking lot at the intersection of Highway 34 and Peoria Road, east of Corvallis, on October 4, 2025. The incident has sparked a thorough investigation by local law enforcement, leading to the arrest of two individuals suspected of involvement in the crime.
Steve Dwayne Simmons Jr., 44, of Albany, was taken into custody on October 17 by members of the Linn County Regional SWAT Team. The arrest occurred at the Geary Street Urgent Care facility, located at the intersection of Queen Avenue SE and Geary Street in Albany. During the encounter, Simmons attempted to evade law enforcement but was quickly apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. He was then transported to the Linn County Jail and initially charged with Murder in the Second Degree.
Caption: Linn County detectives arrest two in connection to fatal shooting near Highway 34
Following the arrest, detectives presented their findings to the Linn County Grand Jury on October 22. As a result of this presentation, Simmons faced more severe charges, including Murder in the First Degree, Murder in the Second Degree, Robbery in the First Degree, and two counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
In addition to Simmons, Joshua Edward Gabell, 41, of Corvallis, was also indicted by the Grand Jury. Gabell is charged with Murder in the Second Degree and Robbery in the First Degree. He has been in custody at the Linn County Jail since October 10, when he was detained for an unrelated parole violation.
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office has received assistance from several other law enforcement agencies during the investigation. These include the Oregon State University Public Safety Department, the Albany Police Department, the Corvallis Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Their collaboration has been essential in gathering evidence and piecing together the events surrounding the homicide.
The investigation into the murder of Christopher Smith is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Individuals who have knowledge of the case are encouraged to contact the Linn County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (866) 557-9988. This call is a critical step in ensuring that justice is served and that all relevant details are brought to light.
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